Follow-up Archive

May 18, 2006

Reaching out to Young Adults
By Sarah Reinwald

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Today’s young adults-- ages 18 to 34-- have statistically proven their relational, professional and spiritual differences from those of their parents in their younger years. Although Baby Boomers laid the groundwork for the present social circumstance- exemplified during the Vietnam War years and since-- the behaviors of this present young adult aged group are now considered standard rather than rebellious.

Young adults today live in a world where truth is relative. They have had far less spiritual upbringing and nurturing than the generations of recent centuries. This is a high-risk group: 25% currently identify with no faith at all. 46% of this demographic have no spiritual preference- whether raised in a religion or not. An emphasis on parenthood and tradition is dying to the enhancement of education and professional success.

This age group struggles with more alcoholism, anxiety and depression, and promiscuity than before- including sexually transmitted diseases and addiction to pornography. There is an obvious need for fulfillment: an obvious need for God. But in a generation where spiritual awareness is dwindling and truth is relative, how can we get their attention? What can we do or say to gain their respect and a listening ear?

TIPS
Get their attention. Society offers too many entertainment options; and, in turn, we have short attention spans. If you don’t prove your conversation or outreach event is more important than the alternatives, it will be short-lived. Do what they like to do. Discuss what they want to discuss. Be passionate! Have fun. Any topic they could possibly address can be tied back to the Bible.

Use historical fact. Where education is greatly emphasized, so is historical fact and rationale. Use historical proof that Christ existed and was who He said He was. Show that you too are educated; not only do you stand in faith-- you have made an educated decision to be a follower of Christ.

Listen to their spiritual views. A common belief among young adults is that we want to talk to them about our religious beliefs but don’t want to hear about theirs. Your views will be respected further when you have respected theirs.

Admit your faults. Don’t act like you have it all together: you don’t. Be relatable. Communicate your faults and point to your continuous need for Christ. If you are self-righteous, you will be tuned out from the start.

Don’t proclaim to know everything. Because of potential crime as well as the simple desire to acquire better business skills, the young-adult generation has been taught to read people. If you don’t know something, don’t wing it. Ask to check on it or ask another trustworthy source to join the conversation. If young adults think you are winging it, they will disregard it quickly.

Communicate complete forgiveness. There are many alternatives to Christ: drugs and alcohol, money, sex…the list goes on. But nothing fills the God-shaped hole except God. At some point, sin brings disparity. Communicate that no matter what we have done, God completely wipes the slate clean! He forgives us, so we can start over every day.

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